Astros’ St. Louis imports receive their World Series rings — and reminders of their goals

As the Astros try in many ways to replicate the success of the Cardinals, four Astros were given tangible reminders of what they’re trying to achieve.

General manager Jeff Luhnow, director of decision sciences Sig Mejdal and special assistant Mike Elias were all given their 2011 World Series rings in a small ceremony in the Minute Maid Park GM box, while bench coach Joe Pettini, who served the same role for Tony La Russa previously, received his separately.

Cardinals owner Bill Dewitt and GM John Mozeliak presented the rings, which are individualized with last names and feature the “rally squirrel” that ran across home plate during one playoff game and was jokingly said to spur the unlikely run.

“Being able to get hardware like this is why we do this — why we’re in this industry,” said Luhnow, who also won a 2006 ring with the Cardinals. “I’m just glad I was a part of it, and I can’t wait until we do the same thing here in Houston.”

Sinatro a tough sign despite ties

Astros catching and advance scouting coordinator Matt Sinatro was a proud father of a potential Astro-to-be when the club drafted his son Jimmy Sinatro in the 35th round Wednesday.

It’s hardly uncommon for teams to take the progeny of their employees. Actually half the Astros’ division — Brewers, Cardinals and Cubs — drafted a son of that team’s current manager.

But this Seattle-area high school catcher was hardly a courtesy pick and is expected to be a difficult sign.

“He’s a very talented young man and has a pretty strong commitment to Gonzaga,” assistant general manager of scouting Bobby Heck said. “I think we expect him to go to Gonzaga, but there’s still many days between now and July 13.”

High school players with upside were rare late in the draft since teams couldn’t throw six-figure money at them like in previous years. So while Matt Sinatro, who played in 10 seasons as a major league catcher, estimated that his son had contact with 12 teams including three in-home visits, he still had some doubts.

“I figured with the way this whole new thing was set up, I didn’t know if he was going to get drafted or not,” Matt Sinatro said. “It’s an honor. Absolutely an honor.”